Fall In Love with Autumn Travel Destinations

The air is getting crisp, the kids are back in school and the trees are just beginning to change colors. You can tell that fall is just around the corner and with that, comes the perfect opportunity to enjoy the refreshing weather before the chill of winter sets in. And with the help of the U.S. airlines, a weekend exploring a new city this autumn with a cup of cider in hand has never been easier or more affordable.

Check out a few of our favorite fall destinations below and hop onboard with our members this season for a trip you’ll never forget!

New Orleans, Louisiana

Let the good times roll this fall with a trip down to the Big Easy on Alaska Airlines! Step off the plane at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport and head straight to the world famous Café Du Monde for a café au lait and a beignet. Take your breakfast to Jackson Square and enjoy this New Orleans delicacy while watching street performers and musicians entertain the lively crowds in the warm autumn air. Stroll through the winding streets of the French Quarter and take in the ornate architecture influenced by Creole, French and Spanish cultures. Stop into one of the city’s many incredible restaurants for a taste of true Cajun food—Shrimp po’ boys, chargrilled oysters and crawfish étouffée are just a few of the tantalizing bites you can find on your trip. Finish your evening at the iconic Preservation Hall, where you can listen to live New Orleans Jazz music seven nights a week in an intimate setting.

For a picturesque visit to Lake Michigan’s western shore, reserve your flight on United Airlines for a chance to see the changing leaves of Milwaukee. After landing at General Mitchell International Airport, head to the heart of downtown to take a morning stroll along the Riverwalk, taking in the sights and viewing the ever-changing art in this 20-block outdoor gallery. Next, stop at the Milwaukee Public Market for a sampling of fresh food and unique items from local vendors before heading to the Lake Michigan lakefront to visit the Milwaukee Art Museum, complete with stunning collections and a wine bar overlooking the water. End the afternoon at one of the city’s many breweries, where you can sample craft beer and snack on fried cheese curds, a Wisconsin staple.

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Santa Fe, New Mexico

When the temperatures cool down, it’s the perfect time for a trip to the Southwest! Catch a flight on American Airlines to Santa Fe Municipal Airport and pack your bags for a cultural adventure. First, change into tennis shoes for a hike through the Santa Fe National Forest to enjoy “leaf peeping” season. Stop by “Meow Wolf,” an eclectic and immersive art installation housed inside a vacant bowling alley owned by Game of Thrones author George R.R. Martin. When it comes to food, the choices are endless, but be sure not to miss the New Mexican green chile, a staple in nearly every Santa Fe restaurant. You can find this local ingredient on everything from enchiladas to hamburgers. End the night by catching a show at The Santa Fe Opera, a modern open air theater featuring talented opera stars from around the world.

There’s nothing quite like a trip to the Northeast in the fall to really get you in the spirit of the season. Touch down at Portland International Jetport with JetBlue Airways before renting a bike to tour the peninsula like a true local. Check out Victoria’s Mansion for a piece of Maine history and one of the most historic homes of the 19th century. Then ride to Commercial Street for an Instagram-worthy lobster roll on the wharf and catch the ferry to Peaks Island for a scenic tour of the bay. Take the ferry back just in time to take in the sunset at the beautiful Portland Head Lighthouse and listen to the waves crash over the rocky shore.

Make your way down South this fall for a vacation that you’ll never want to leave. Land at San Antonio International Airport with Southwest Airlines and start your day off at the Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage site for a piece of history from the Texas Revolution. Next, visit the Natural Bridge Caverns for a breathtaking adventure through natural rock formations 180 feet underground. Head downtown to grab a bite to eat at one of the many Tex-Mex restaurants, where mind-blowingly delicious fajitas, tacos, tortillas and enchiladas are served up fresh daily. Walk off your meal by wandering around the famous River Walk, browsing in shops and watching the river boat tours float by under string lights as you stroll.

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Seattle, Washington

Take off with Hawaiian Airlines for a trip to the Pacific Northwest! After arriving at Seattle–Tacoma International Airport, make your way to Pike’s Place Market to walk around and grab a hot coffee before the excitement begins! Visit the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum for awe-inspiring exhibits, including the Glasshouse, a 40-foot tall glass and steel structure and one of Dale Chihuly’s largest suspended sculptures. Next, hop on a ferry for panoramic views of the skyline or catch a 360 degree view of the sunset and Mt. Rainier from the Space Needle. Finish the night with tickets to a Seattle Seahawks game, cheering on Russell Wilson at CenturyLink Field in this favorite fall pastime.

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